Bjoern Ole Sander

Ole currently leads IRRI’s country office in Thailand. He is a Senior Scientist and climate change focal point of the Institute. His research group focuses on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and mitigation technologies. Ole completed his PhD at the University of Kiel in 2008. In 2010, he joined IRRI as a Collaborative Research Scientist with Dr. Reiner Wassmann.

As climate change specialist, Ole analyzes the GHG balance of different cropping systems with a focus on Southeast Asia. He evaluates different mitigation options through water, fertilizer, and crop residue management. In his research, Ole also identifies suitable conditions to support dissemination of mitigation technologies, particularly a water-saving method known as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) which offers huge potential in reducing methane emissions. 

Ole’s expertise in project management and multistakeholder engagement further supports and strengthens the implementation of IRRI’s agenda throughout the field of climate change research and climate-smart technologies. Throughout his years with IRRI, Ole has continually worked with various stakeholders in countries within the region to foster the implementation of climate-smart farming practices. He maintains valuable networks across national institutions in Vietnam, Thailand, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.